The climax of the final saw India requiring three runs from the last ball. Ulva, who finished unbeaten on 49 from just 26 deliveries, dispatched a delivery from leg-spinner Ahmed Hussain wide of long-off to seal the win. His heroics completed a remarkable turnaround for India, who had appeared destined for defeat after slipping to 252 for eight in the 42nd over.
A resilient fightback under pressure
India’s pursuit of the 338-run target began with a solid foundation from openers Aaryavir Sehwag, who scored 58, and captain Lakshya Raichandani, who contributed 80. The pair put together a 95-run stand, but a subsequent middle-order collapse left the team in a precarious position. With the required run rate climbing, Ulva joined Manal Chauhan at the crease, and the pair initiated a vital 57-run partnership for the ninth wicket.
Manal Chauhan played a crucial role in the recovery, scoring 47 off 32 balls before his dismissal at 302. With 36 runs still required and only one wicket remaining, the burden fell on Ulva to guide the tail. He found a reliable partner in No. 11 C Venkata, who remained unbeaten on 11 from eight balls. The duo managed the final overs with precision, narrowing the target to eight runs off the last over before Ulva delivered the decisive blow.
From local roots to international stage
The victory marks a significant milestone in the early career of Ulva, an 18-year-old right-arm medium pacer and batter. His journey to the national U-19 side began in his village, where he initially played tennis-ball cricket. Encouraged by his father, who serves with the Railway Protection Force, Ulva sought formal training at the Cricket Bungalow in Jamnagar.
Under the guidance of coach Mahendrasinh Chauhan—who also mentored Ravindra Jadeja—Ulva’s game underwent a transformation. Although he began his training as an off-spinner, his coach identified his potential as a fast bowler, leading him to transition into a right-arm medium pacer. After progressing through the Saurashtra age-group system, his development culminated in this high-stakes performance, which ultimately secured the Asia Cup trophy for his country.
